Since leaving NCIS in 2018, Pauley Perrette has largely stepped away from acting, choosing instead to focus on personal projects and advocacy work. After portraying the beloved forensic scientist Abby Sciuto for 15 seasons, she briefly returned to television in the 2020 CBS sitcom Broke, but the show was canceled after just one season. Following that, Perrette announced her retirement from acting, stating she was ready to move on from Hollywood and embrace a quieter life. Despite her departure from the industry, she has remained active on social media, sharing updates about her personal life, thoughts on social issues, and her continued passion for philanthropy.

In addition to stepping away from acting, Perrette has devoted much of her time to charitable work and activism. She has been a vocal advocate for LGBTQ+ rights, domestic violence awareness, and animal rescue efforts, frequently using her platform to raise awareness for causes close to her heart. She has also spoken openly about her experiences with workplace safety, referencing the challenges she faced while on NCIS. Despite her criticisms of the industry, she continues to support her former co-stars and celebrates the legacy of her time on the show, often reminiscing about the impact Abby Sciuto had on audiences.

Perrette has also embraced a more private and peaceful lifestyle, focusing on her health and happiness. She has shared glimpses of her life post-Hollywood, including her love for gardening, music, and spending time with friends and family. Occasionally, she surprises fans with throwback photos and heartfelt messages, showing her gratitude for the support she received throughout her career. While she has no plans to return to acting, her influence remains strong, with fans still cherishing her work on NCIS. Whether through her advocacy, philanthropy, or personal reflections, Pauley Perrette continues to leave a lasting mark beyond her years on television.